A clear colostomy bag will be placed over the stoma so it can be easily monitored and drained. The first bag is often quite large – it'll usually be replaced with a smaller bag before you go home.

Stoma nurse

While you recover in hospital, a stoma nurse will show you how to care for your stoma, including how to empty and change the bag.

The nurse will teach you how to keep your stoma and surrounding skin clean and free from irritation, and give you advice about preventing infection.

They'll also explain the different types of equipment available and how to get new supplies.

When you leave hospital, a local stoma nurse will visit you at home, or you may be asked to go to a stoma care clinic.

Going home

Most people are well enough to leave hospital 3 to 10 days after having a colostomy.

Once home, avoid strenuous activities that could place a strain on your abdomen, such as lifting heavy objects.

Your stoma nurse will give you advice about how soon you can go back to normal activities.

In the first few weeks after your operation, you may have more wind than usual (flatulence), and a discharge from your stoma.

This should start to improve as your bowel recovers from the effects of the operation.

Living with a colostomy

Adjusting to life with a colostomy can be challenging, but most people get used to it in time.

You may be concerned that your day-to-day activities will be restricted and other people will notice you're wearing a colostomy bag.

Modern colostomy equipment is discreet and secure, and you should be able to do most of the activities you enjoyed before without experiencing the symptoms that made the colostomy necessary in the first place.

Your specialist stoma nurse will be able to give you further support and advice to help you adapt to life with a colostomy.